On 8 June, World Ocean Day, the Bermuda London Office was pleased to support the Minister of Public Works & Environment, the Hon. Jache Adams, JP, MP, and Dr. Tammy Warren as they joined partners from across the United Kingdom Overseas Territories to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Blue Belt Programme at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in London.

The event brought together representatives from Overseas Territories, environmental partners, scientists and policymakers to mark a decade of collaboration in marine conservation and sustainable ocean management.

Minister Adams delivered remarks on behalf of the Overseas Territories participating in the Blue Belt Programme, including those engaged in the Blue Belt Ocean Shield and Global Ocean Wildlife Analysis Network (GOWAN) sub-programmes. His address highlighted the shared commitment of the Territories to protecting some of the world’s most unique and ecologically significant marine environments, while recognising the importance of international partnership in advancing ocean conservation.

Since 2016, the Blue Belt Programme has worked alongside the UK Overseas Territories to support the protection and sustainable management of more than four million square kilometres of ocean. Through a combination of scientific research, monitoring, enforcement support and capacity building, the Programme has become one of the United Kingdom’s most significant contributions to global marine conservation.

The anniversary celebration also served as an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the Programme over the past decade and to reaffirm a collective commitment to safeguarding ocean ecosystems for future generations. Discussions focused on the importance of resilient marine management frameworks, biodiversity protection, and the role of Overseas Territories in advancing global conservation goals.

The event’s timing on World Ocean Day underscored the significance of healthy oceans to communities around the world. As an island nation whose identity, economy and way of life are intrinsically linked to the sea, Bermuda continues to champion sustainable ocean management and international cooperation on marine conservation.

The Bermuda London Office was proud to support Minister Adams and Dr. Warren at this important milestone event and to celebrate the continued success of a Programme that demonstrates the value of strong local leadership, informed by world-class scientific expertise and collaborative partnerships.